Stemming from a role in the California State Assembly, Patrick MacFarlane quickly realized the importance of robust early care and education policy as a way to build thriving communities. A native of South Central Los Angeles, Patrick shares how his family’s focus on service and commitment has shaped his passion for the child care field. He explains how his professional journey has challenged him to step up as a leader, and how he wants to inspire those around him. Together, Patrick and host Dr. Lynette Fraga discuss why fair wages are critical to sustaining the child care field, and what is needed for a more equitable system.  

Patrick MacFarlane is the Government Relations Manager at Child Care Resource Center, where he leads their state and local public policy advocacy. Patrick also serves as a California Senate appointee to the Early Childhood Policy Council Parent Advisory Committee, and on the Los Angeles County Child Care Planning Committee. Patrick is currently a Policy Fellow with the National Black Child Development Institute.  

Patrick is a former Public Policy Associate at Crystal Stairs, Inc. and previously served as Senior Field Representative with the California State Assembly. Very active in his community, Patrick serves as VP of Administration for Los Angeles County Young Democrats and as VP of Chapters and Societies for the Loyola High School Alumni Association Board. A University of Arizona graduate, Patrick was born and raised in Los Angeles, where he resides with his wife Raquel and 4-year-old daughter Leah. 

"A Seat at the Table” is an award-winning podcast produced by Child Care Aware® of America, the nation’s leading voice on child care. Listen and subscribe at www.childcareaware.org/TheTable.